https://community.usms.org/swimming/f/open-water-training-and-technique/24678/the-joy-of-open-waterThis summer has been an eye opening experience as the nearest pool is over an hour away. The public beach looks common enough with all the regular rocks and plenty of shells, not to mention the shiny amethyst littering the shore. How far will I swim todayen-USTelligent Community 12https://community.usms.org/thread/264363?ContentTypeID=1Sat, 09 Aug 2008 14:13:31 GMT3187ac58-ba85-4314-b79a-c45cd885e09a:78cc17b1-76cb-4307-8d76-0c773970c3d4Former MemberThe feel of the swells when you are way out past the breakers,,,,,,,,,,having sea lions swim next to you!<div style="clear:both;"></div>https://community.usms.org/thread/264338?ContentTypeID=1Sat, 09 Aug 2008 08:44:58 GMT3187ac58-ba85-4314-b79a-c45cd885e09a:2ee7127e-060e-44f7-834f-e89f32d14001AnimalThe start of this open water season at the Chatfield Gravel Pond a the base of the foothills along the Rocky Moutains outside Littleton, Colorado was the best. Free to be outdoors, no lane lines, no lane ropes and no walls. I can swim over a half mile without turning around. The water was in the low 50s and I swam only in a suit, no wet suit for this swimmer. I love the feel of the cold water on my face and chest. The sun was on my back and the cold water surrounds me. It felt like I was one with nature. I have to swim hard and fast to generate body heat. After this is accomplished, the water is comfortable. I swim with fish, peer into the darkness below me and look to the shore to see trees, bushes and people fishing. I look at the expressions of some of these fisherpeople and bet they are thinking what type of person would be swimming in the pond a week after we have had snow on the ground. Or are they thinking I am disturbing the fish that they seek. I swim with lake trout, crayfish and another fish I do not know the name of. I reach to pet this fish, but with a wave of its body it is out of reach, but it watchs me. The joy of open water can be taken from so many areas, sight, feel, warmth, cold and just being alive.<div style="clear:both;"></div>https://community.usms.org/thread/264316?ContentTypeID=1Sat, 09 Aug 2008 05:32:14 GMT3187ac58-ba85-4314-b79a-c45cd885e09a:f739c797-5ddf-4a4a-989b-69f1f3dc4c73ViveBeneGlad to see you here! Pool swimming is to OW as the practice room is to the concert hall. It all comes together, and you have to find the music. :agree: VB<div style="clear:both;"></div>